Dec 6, 2018 · Vinyl windows are a popular choice among homeowners and builders because of their affordable prices, energy efficiency, and durability. Vinyl windows are made from a polyvinyl chloride material, also known as PVC. Vinyl is a plastic material that works really well as a building material because it’s both flexible and durable. Mar 3, 2022 · Instead of having to choose between wood vs. vinyl windows, consider an option that features both. ProVia’s Aeris wood-clad vinyl windows offer the warm beauty and character of a wood interior, paired with the advantages of a low-maintenance vinyl exterior. Aeris windows are engineered and manufactured so the wood snaps into the vinyl and ... Dec 6, 2018 · Vinyl windows are a popular choice among homeowners and builders because of their affordable prices, energy efficiency, and durability. Vinyl windows are made from a polyvinyl chloride material, also known as PVC. Vinyl is a plastic material that works really well as a building material because it’s both flexible and durable. Vinyl vs Wood vs Composite Window Trim. Let’s have a closer look at wood vs vinyl window trim, and vinyl exterior window trim. Vinyl Window Trim. Pros. Cons. It is composed of a strong durable material that won't warp, peel, chip, bubble or rot. Limited style and size options. Replacement vinyl windows will look great with vinyl trim.But the faux wood look isn’t for everyone, especially on windows of historic homes. Plus, vinyl can crack in extreme cold or warp when temperatures soar. Related Article. Wood Siding vs. Vinyl Siding: Pros, Cons, and Costs. Wood vs. vinyl siding—it’s time to square off. Fiber Cement. Like fiber cement siding, exterior window trim styles in …Double-Hung: Double-hung aluminum or vinyl windows feature two sashes that can slide up and down within the frame, allowing for better ventilation and airflow. Casement: Casement windows are hinged at the side and open outward using a crank mechanism. They’re usually rectangular and consist of a single glass pane that opens out …Wood and vinyl are two of the most popular choices when it comes to window material. Both make for excellent windows, but in the end, which one is the better choice? Here’s a point-by-point comparison between the two to help you decide on a window replacement: Maintenance. Wood requires regular care to maintain its form and …Sep 26, 2023 ... As a result, they provide considerably better energy efficiency than hollow-core vinyl windows. ](https://www.bobvila.com/articles/wood-vs-vinyl ...Eco-Friendliness. Fibrex is a more sustainable option than vinyl. About 40% of the material is reclaimed wood fibers that are repurposed from Andersen Corporation’s wood window manufacturing. This means that Renewal by Andersen is doing its part in reducing waste that ends up in landfills. Renewal by Andersen of Atlanta is the leading home ...Wood is a poor conductor of heat, which can help regulate your home's temperature. During the cold winter months, wood windows can help keep the warmth inside your home, reducing reliance on ...Wood Windows. If aesthetic appeal is important and you have an older or historic home, it’s hard to beat the natural beauty of wood. You will end up paying more for quality wood windows, but for some homeowners the look of wood windows is simply the most important thing.Most wood windows are made from Douglas fir or pine and the …Are vinyl or fiberglass windows better? Whether vinyl or fiberglass is better depends on your priorities. Fiberglass windows are more durable, energy …Wood vs Vinyl Windows. Wood Windows. $10,500 - $12,000. (10 48-inch sash windows installed) VS. Vinyl Windows. $7,700 - $9,800. (10 48-inch sash … Both types of windows are durable and require less maintenance than wood, but each has certain qualities that may make one preferable over the other. On average, vinyl costs between $250 and $600, while aluminum costs from $400 to $1,200.*. This makes vinyl roughly 46% to 67% less expensive than aluminum. Vinyl windows are cost-effective. Compared to wood windows, vinyl windows are cheap to install and replace. They're also typically better insulators, helping ...The premium vinyl used to craft Ply Gem windows is durable and easy to maintain. The thermal performance of vinyl is superior to many other window materials which means greater energy efficiency. Vinyl’s base color is solid through and through for maintenance-free beauty. And new color options allow you to combine dark exterior colors with ...Quality vinyl windows with multi-paned glass, the Super Spacer® window system, and Neopor GPS insulation are more energy-efficient and durable than wood window systems. Although vinyl is not biodegradable, it is recyclable. And responsible vinyl window manufacturers make extra efforts to conserve energy and water, reduce …A 48-inch vinyl window will cost between $520 and $730, with installation for each costing around $250. This makes the total cost for each installed window between $770 and $980. Aluminum windows cost between $720 and $930 for a 48-inch window, and installation costs are higher, around $350 for each window. This makes the final cost for each ...Unlike wood windows that demand regular attention to combat issues like rotting, warping, or peeling paint, vinyl windows are virtually maintenance-free. A ...Are you a vinyl enthusiast looking to sell your old records? Perhaps you’ve inherited a collection and want to find the best place to sell them. Look no further. In this article, w...Vinyl Frames Milgard Fiberglass Frames Aluminum Frames Sliding Glass Doors Window Install & Replacement. Highlights. Educational website. Free assessment. Good customer service. 2915 Red Hill Ave B104, Costa Mesa, CA 714-434-8650 cgwindow.com.Wood and vinyl are two of the most popular window frame materials, but they’re very different in terms of durability and maintenance. Wood windows …Oct 16, 2023 · Wood and vinyl windows are two of the most popular window options. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages that you should take note of when choosing which type to use. To get started on your window replacement, contact your window pros for FREE ESTIMATES! Cost of Wood vs Vinyl Windows. Wood windows are a premium luxury building ... When it comes to choosing the right material for your storm windows, there are a few options to consider. Aluminum and vinyl are two popular choices that offer different benefits a...On average, fiberglass windows run about 25 percent more than vinyl and about half the price of aluminum-clad wood. Expect to pay about $300 for a basic 3-by-5-foot fiberglass unit. DIY or hire a pro? They’re available for new construction windows as well as replacement windows. Some manufacturers sell only through approved installers.Andersen states that Fibrex stands up better against heat distortion than vinyl. Fibrex's heat distortion threshold is 173 F, compared to vinyl's threshold of 163 F. So, even though Fibrex's threshold is 10 degrees higher than that of vinyl, both materials remain below the distortion starting point of 180 F.Winner: Vinyl is the clear victor when it comes to wood vs. vinyl fencing durability. MAINTENANCE. Vinyl fencing requires no maintenance whatsoever. Although you may want to hose it off from time to time to remove built up dirt, that chore will often be performed by the rain! Wood, on the other hand, requires an abundance of work if you …The cost difference between wood and vinyl windows varies depending on several factors such as your location, size of your home’s doors/windows etc., quality level desired (low vs high end) but typically speaking PVC/vinyl frame options tend cheaper than wooden frame options in most cases. However, if you want the traditional look of wooden ...Apr 22, 2013 ... Will not rust, warp, splinter, or rot. Highly weather-resistant, even in extreme conditions. A scratch can almost always be polished ...Vinyl windows are one of the top choices for new and replacement windows. They’re energy-efficient, durable, and more affordable than other materials. You can find vinyl replacement windows in various styles and colors from all the major brands. The biggest downside is that vinyl doesn’t last as long as wood and may not give you …Wood Windows vs Vinyl Cost. Vinyl windows are about 25% to 50% less expensive than wood windows. Of course, either’s price depends on the grade, but vinyl will always be less expensive. The cost of wood windows is simply higher. Call it the law of supply and demand, the cost of beauty, or the fact that fewer companies manufacture …May 30, 2019 ... While vinyl windows are far from ugly, they aren't exactly aesthetic marvels either. Most would agree that vinyl lacks the elegance present in ...Costs for wood fences start around $3 to $6 per linear foot for a split rail fence made of pine and increase to $9 to $18 a linear foot for a privacy fence made of tropical hardwoods. This usually includes the cost of installation, but a difficult install may increase the costs by $25 to $50 an hour. So a typical 6-foot privacy fence will cost ... Stanek Windows offers four rich vinyl woodgrain interior finishes that present the look of real wood without all of the maintenance needed. Real wood is beautiful, but like most natural materials, is easily affected by the elements and needs regular upkeep like sanding, staining and sealing. Our woodgrain vinyl window interiors are the ideal ... Read about the pros and cons of aluminum window vs. vinyl. ... Vinyl window frames cost around $250 to $600, less than wood or fiberglass windows. With an average two-decade life span, they offer a high return on …Wood windows usually last for about 20 years, and vinyl windows last even longer. With proper maintenance and good construction, both types can work great for several decades. The paint in wood can peel over time, and darker vinyl windows can fade. A darker window frame can also absorb more heat and make your home less …While vinyl is incredibly durable, it can also be rigid and difficult to work with when installing replacement windows. If you're not comfortable working with ...When it comes to choosing the right material for your storm windows, there are a few options to consider. Aluminum and vinyl are two popular choices that offer different benefits a...Read about the pros and cons of aluminum window vs. vinyl. ... Vinyl window frames cost around $250 to $600, less than wood or fiberglass windows. With an average two-decade life span, they offer a high return on …- ACRE Explains. Today we will compare and contrast the two leading types of replacement windows, wood windows, and vinyl windows, to help you decide …Jul 28, 2021 · Wood has an R-value of just over 1 per inch, so you are probably looking at about R 3.5 - 4 at best. A foam core will offer you the best thermal protection for the limited thickness of a door. The door is really one of the more visible features of your home as your guests stand staring at it waiting for you to answer. Going by the data provided from the 2018 Cost Vs. Value Report, vinyl windows are definitely the better budget-friendly choice. Recouping 74.3% of your initial investment (4.8% more than wood) with the initial installation costing wallets an approximately $3,436 LESS than the average wood window frame cost. Mar 1, 2022 · Vinyl windows are less expensive than fiberglass windows, though both are less expensive than wood windows. Including installation, vinyl windows cost between $500 and $750. Fiberglass windows are ... When it comes to selecting windows for your home, there are a variety of materials to choose from. Two of the most popular materials are fibreglass and vinyl. Each material has its...Whether you’re looking for new or replacement windows, explore the different window frame material options including vinyl, wood and fiberglass.When it comes to replacing windows in your home, there are many options available. Fibreglass and vinyl windows are two of the most popular choices for homeowners looking to improv...Maintenance and repairs of wood windows are more expensive than vinyl windows. The exterior must be sanded and repainted every 2-3 years. Wood warps, swells, scratches, stains, and splinters. Wood windows are more difficult to insulate. Wood is much heavier, making it more difficult to work with. Wood burns in a fire, sometimes …Brick molding is a type of exterior trim placed around windows and doors. Despite its name, brick molding is made from wood, vinyl or composite materials, never from brick. The pri...When it comes time to install your new doors, you’ll have a range of options to choose from, including wood, vinyl, steel, aluminum, and fiberglass. And to figure out which is the best material for your patio doors, you’ll also have lots of factors to consider, from aesthetics to durability to cost.Oct 1, 2019 ... Vinyl windows are almost exclusively made using PVC material, or high-quality polyvinyl chloride. Interior wood windows (pine, douglas fir, etc.) ...Jun 30, 2021 · Based on a Cost vs. Value report, wood windows have a 67.4% return on investment. Vinyl. Since vinyl windows are less expensive to produce, they are more affordable. They’re also lighter than wood windows and easier to install. Based on the Cost vs. Value report cited above, vinyl windows have a 68.6% return on investment. Durability As mentioned, wood has very poor insulative properties. By stark comparison, construction-grade vinyl is now used for over 70% of window frames due to its superior insulative properties and exceptional cost-effectiveness. Sliding glass doors with vinyl framing perform better than wood frames in slowing the transfer of heat through the frame ...Pros. Vinyl windows are a durable, attractive, and highly energy efficient option that comes in various colors. Vinyl is a fire-, pest-, and rot-resistant material. They are …Read about the pros and cons of aluminum window vs. vinyl. ... Vinyl window frames cost around $250 to $600, less than wood or fiberglass windows. With an average two-decade life span, they offer a high return on …Harvey offers two window lines: Classic Vinyl and Majesty Wood. Each has customization options. Classic Vinyl: As the name suggests, this window line provides high-quality, classic vinyl windows ...Wood windows are more energy-efficient compared to hollow-core vinyl windows. While it isn’t always the case, many vinyl windows are hollow. Even if the seals around the window …Whether you’re looking for new or replacement windows, explore the different window frame material options including vinyl, wood and fiberglass.. This material won't warp, swell or peel regardless of humidity or moisture levels. While wood shutters are stronger than vinyl ones, they are susceptible to moisture damage, and may not be the best choice for moisture-prone areas. Wood shutters also may suffer damage from insects in certain areas, while vinyl shutters are immune to this type … The misconception that the best value equates to the cheapest price is prevalent, particularly with vinyl windows. As installers with extensive experience, we’ve witnessed the repercussions of prioritizing initial affordability over long-term value when it comes to wood and fiberglass vs. vinyl windows. Vinyl clad windows are constructed of wood with a vinyl cladding that provides the finish and helps protect against the elements. These windows are similar to all-vinyl windows in their look and design but are more durable in the long run. Vinyl clad windows are also much more energy efficient than traditional windows, which can help …Pros and Cons of Fibrex Windows | Fibrex Windows Vs Vinyl Windows Vs Fiberglass Fibrex Windows. Fibrex is a composite material invented by the Andersen Window Corporation and are the unique Vinyl-alternative windows. ... Fibrex windows are a durable alternative to traditional wood windows, but it’s possible they may not be the …These residential wood-clad vinyl windows are uniquely engineered through a patented system that fully integrates real wood interiors with maintenance-free vinyl exteriors. This unique system was designed specifically for homeowners who want the best wood-interior windows and who value the warmth and beauty of wood. Choosing both wood and …Vinyl replacement windows are usually cheaper by about 25% to 45% when compared to wooden ones. The midrange price for a vinyl window and its installation is ...Where Andersen has innovated with vinyl is by using it as a protective cladding for its wood core windows. This combination of a weather-resistant vinyl exterior, the strength of a solid wood frame and the beauty of a wood interior performs well beyond what vinyl can achieve on its own. It has been in service for nearly 50 years and it's no ...And the national average to replace the old windows in a 10-window house with new vinyl double-hung, low-E (high efficiency) units can cost between $3,500 and $10,500, with a majority of people ...mike35 ... A good wood window will perform better for longer, in my opinion. Here in the northeast, the severe temperature swings seems to destroy the hollow ...Jul 8, 2019 ... There are many choices to make when you're picking out replacement windows, but one of the biggest is which material your new windows will ...March 3, 2022. Windows. When you’re ready to replace your home windows, you’ll have several decisions to make, including window type, glass and grid options, …Apr 15, 2019 ... Wood windows are heavier than vinyl, and require a bit more installation finesse. Because the market for wood has dwindled slightly, it can take ...Determining the value of old vinyl records isn’t an exact science, according to Rare Records. A variety of factors go into determining the value of a record, and these factors are ...Pros and Cons of Fibrex Windows | Fibrex Windows Vs Vinyl Windows Vs Fiberglass Fibrex Windows. Fibrex is a composite material invented by the Andersen Window Corporation and are the unique Vinyl-alternative windows. ... Fibrex windows are a durable alternative to traditional wood windows, but it’s possible they may not be the …Window Install & Replacement Sliding Glass Doors Commercial Windows Window Repair Custom Window Designs Aluminum Frames. Highlights. Free assessment. Good customer service. Educational website. 121 Talcott Rd, West Hartford, CT 860-231-7884 paramountgallery.us.Wood Windows vs. Vinyl Windows: You Decide The Winner! Wood windows may be a traditional look and style, but that doesn’t mean that they are the best window to choose. Replacing wood windows with vinyl is also very common with owners of older homes because of all the advantages of vinyl windows. In this battle of vinyl windows vs. …Before you jump in to upgrading your windows, make sure you know the 4 differences between vinyl and wood windows. First, let’s decide which is the best material option for you. Vinyl windows are made of polyvinyl chloride, commonly known as PVC. PVC is a plastic material that is also used to make plumbing pipes, electrical pipes, and …Wood grain finishes are available in: Cherry wood. This finish has a fine grain pattern and the reddish tones of cherry wood. Dark oak. Dark oak is a striking warm brown color with dark wood grain patterns underneath. English oak. This wood grain is blond in color, with warm brown grain lines.Vinyl vs. Aluminum Windows Cost. Vinyl windows are much more affordable than aluminum, making them the go-to choice for homeowners on a budget. On average, vinyl windows cost between $200 and $500 per window before labor costs — making them more affordable than aluminum, composite, fiberglass, and wood frames.The Basics of Wood vs. Vinyl Windows. Save. When you think about wood windows, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s that timeless, classic charm …Its generous pricing model, strong industry reputation, and impressive warranty earned it 4 out of 5 stars and the title “Most Affordable.”. Contact Universal Windows Direct to get a free estimate. On average, UWD sells high-quality windows for $350 to $550, making it one of the most affordable options on the market.Jun 30, 2021 · Based on a Cost vs. Value report, wood windows have a 67.4% return on investment. Vinyl. Since vinyl windows are less expensive to produce, they are more affordable. They’re also lighter than wood windows and easier to install. Based on the Cost vs. Value report cited above, vinyl windows have a 68.6% return on investment. Durability Feb 2, 2024 · Fiberglass vs. Vinyl: Cost. Both fiberglass and vinyl are less expensive than wood, but you’ll save more money by opting for vinyl. Vinyl windows cost roughly $500 to $950 per window, including ... When it comes to choosing the right material for your storm windows, there are a few options to consider. Aluminum and vinyl are two popular choices that offer different benefits a...Mar 11, 2024 · Here are our top picks for the best vinyl windows: Best Selection: Andersen. Best for Sunrooms: Champion Windows. Best Warranty: Castle Windows. Best for Wooden Windows: Harvey Windows and Doors ... Pella 250 Series Vinyl Windows. Pella Vinyl windows are 52% stronger than ordinary vinyl. 2 They’re more energy-efficient, too. Pella vinyl windows with foam insulation and triple-pane glass are 62% more energy-efficient than single-pane vinyl windows. 3 You get more options, too. Pella vinyl windows are available in a broader …Pros of Vinyl Window Casing: Vinyl window trim is made of sturdy material, so it will not warp or rot as quickly as wood casing. Vinyl trim will go perfectly with replacement vinyl windows. Vinyl casing is the perfect choice for modern homes due to its sleek finish. Vinyl window trim is easy to clean and maintain. Cons of Vinyl Window Trim.Wood vs Vinyl Windows: 5 Reasons Why Vinyl is Better. Quality Windows, Siding. & Doors Since 1976. 866-4FELDCO. If you are choosing between buying wood …Oct 10, 2023 · Vinyl is significantly lighter than wood. It is also a much easier type of window to install, and no modifications or painting are necessary. Ultimately, the cost for installing wood windows is higher than for vinyl windows. Durability And Need For Maintenance/Repairs. Both wood and vinyl windows can live long lives. Wood is a poor conductor of heat, which can help regulate your home's temperature. During the cold winter months, wood windows can help keep the warmth inside … In most cases, labor costs are pretty high since the installation process is time-consuming. Vinyl windows – On average, vinyl windows are 20% to 30% less expensive than those made of wood, and Their prices range from $150 to $400 per window. Their installation is effortless, and labor costs are affordable. JELD-WEN ® Premium ™ Vinyl (V-4500 ™) windows offer the exceptional look of wood windows with the reliable performance and easy maintenance of vinyl, plus the widest range of operating styles, sizes, and options to meet design needs.Featuring thermally-efficient frames and Low-E insulating glass, these vinyl windows boast a wider frame …Sep 26, 2023 ... As a result, they provide considerably better energy efficiency than hollow-core vinyl windows. ](https://www.bobvila.com/articles/wood-vs-vinyl ...Feb 25, 2019 ... Wooden windows typically take more time to custom build and the wood used is more expensive as a raw material. Vinyl windows tend to be made ...Oct 20, 2023 · Window material options are fiberglass, vinyl, and wood. Pella has several distinct product lines to choose from, such as: Pella 250 series: This is a cost-effective line of low-maintenance vinyl windows made with more durable window frames than typical vinyl. These windows are highly energy-efficient. When it comes to installing a vinyl fence, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost per foot. Vinyl fences have become increasingly popular due to their durability...Pros. Vinyl windows are a durable, attractive, and highly energy efficient option that comes in various colors. Vinyl is a fire-, pest-, and rot-resistant material. They are …Vinyl window frames are easier to clean than wooden window frames, and vinyl frames don’t warp in humid climates. Here are two additional benefits of vinyl vs. wood windows: Maintenance: Vinyl windows need a quick wipe down and occasional lubrication. Wooden windows are prone to dry rot, regular rot and fungus, and they require repainting ...Most homeowners invest in storm windows to avoid or postpone replacing older, drafty or otherwise deteriorated windows. Consider that an entry-level, single-hung vinyl window measuring roughly 35-in. x 47-in. inches costs about $170. The same size window with a wood frame, double-hung and Low-E glass but no screen costs $415.Pella. Pella windows cost between $650 and $1,000 on average per replacement window. This price includes installation, which averages $250 to $450 per window. The prices swing widely based on the models. For instance, a Pella Encompass model vinyl single-hung window costs around $155 plus installation.Wood windows provide a more traditional look and feel within the home. When you have vinyl windows installed where you once had wood, you are going to notice ...Aeris wood-clad windows are uniquely engineered through a patented process that fully integrates real cherry, oak or maple wood interiors with maintenance-free vinyl exteriors. They were designed specifically for homeowners who want the best wood-interior replacement windows and who value the warmth and beauty of wood that can be …Durability: Vinyl windows have strong frames that can withstand significant impacts without cracking or shattering into pieces like glass can do. The material itself is highly resistant to rusting or corroding – even when exposed to moisture over time – which increases its lifespan considerably beyond other window materials like aluminum or …Vinyl-clad wood windows offer the best of two worlds: an encased temperature-transfer-resistant wood interior, and a low-maintenance exterior. But remember, not all window brands are the same so when shopping for clad windows be sure to look for an exceptional warranty period, a good base wood material, and ask how the wood interior is ...Most homeowners invest in storm windows to avoid or postpone replacing older, drafty or otherwise deteriorated windows. Consider that an entry-level, single-hung vinyl window measuring roughly 35-in. x 47-in. inches costs about $170. The same size window with a wood frame, double-hung and Low-E glass but no screen costs $415.7 years ago. Andersen Windows also has a vinyl line, or our 100-Series product which is a wood-composite product (twice the strength of vinyl) and is priced considerably less than a wood clad product. Thing low cost/low maintenance. It comes in 6-different exterior colors and can be either white or sandtone on the interior.Feb 4, 2024 · Its generous pricing model, strong industry reputation, and impressive warranty earned it 4 out of 5 stars and the title “Most Affordable.”. Contact Universal Windows Direct to get a free estimate. On average, UWD sells high-quality windows for $350 to $550, making it one of the most affordable options on the market. This material won't warp, swell or peel regardless of humidity or moisture levels. While wood shutters are stronger than vinyl ones, they are susceptible to moisture damage, and may not be the best choice for moisture-prone areas. Wood shutters also may suffer damage from insects in certain areas, while vinyl shutters are immune to this type …Instead of having to choose between wood vs. vinyl windows, consider an option that features both. ProVia’s Aeris wood-clad vinyl windows offer the warm beauty and character of a wood interior, paired with the advantages of a low-maintenance vinyl exterior. Aeris windows are engineered and manufactured so the wood snaps into the …4.5/5. Based on 96 customer reviews. Services Offered. Window Repair Fiberglass Frames Aluminum Frames Mirrors Storm Doors Window Install & Replacement. Highlights. Free assessment. Price transparency. Good customer service. 2501 N Central St, Knoxville, TN 865-524-2424 keithwindow.com.Whether you’re looking for new or replacement windows, explore the different window frame material options including vinyl, wood and fiberglass.Sep 1, 2021 · Wood windows usually last for about 20 years, and vinyl windows last even longer. With proper maintenance and good construction, both types can work great for several decades. The paint in wood can peel over time, and darker vinyl windows can fade. A darker window frame can also absorb more heat and make your home less efficient in summer. - ACRE Explains. Today we will compare and contrast the two leading types of replacement windows, wood windows, and vinyl windows, to help you decide …You can expect to pay between $150-$400 per vinyl window. 10) Modern Look. Vinyl windows offer a very sleek, clean, and modern appearance. They come in a wide range of colors to choose from. Just keep in mind that they don’t hold paint as well as wood windows, so the color you choose is the color they’ll be for their whole lifespan. … Cost and Maintenance. Vinyl windows are generally more affordable than wood windows, both in terms of initial purchase price and long-term maintenance costs. They are known for their durability and resistance to elements like moisture and decay, which translates to minimal upkeep. In contrast, wood windows provide a high-end look and demand ... Wood has an R-value of just over 1 per inch, so you are probably looking at about R 3.5 - 4 at best. A foam core will offer you the best thermal protection for the limited thickness of a door. The door is really one of the more visible features of your home as your guests stand staring at it waiting for you to answer. ---1